In this episode, we explore how, for some people, the lifelong desire to lose weight can reflect an unconscious attempt to “fix” parts of ourselves that we think are broken or somehow wrong – something that is common for those of us who have endured childhood trauma or abuse.
As we know, childhood abuse and trauma can take many forms. And for too many, the effects of that abuse linger on well into adulthood, touching just about every aspect of life – from our intimate relationships, mental and physical health, self-confidence, and so much more.
Those of us who have endured abuse, trauma, or abandonment can end up feeling very unsafe in our bodies, or that there is something wrong with us that needs fixing.
As Marc David explores with 50-year old coaching client, Denise, one of the many ways people will sometimes try to re-establish safety or restore wholeness is by controlling their weight and diet.
While Denise has largely healed from the childhood abuse she endured, she still struggles with not feeling worthy or that she’s “enough” just as she is. She often turns to food for comfort or emotional support, and in her words, “would like to be more consistent with what I know is best for me, and not self-sabotage, or let emotions take over my bigger health and weight goals.”
What Denise and others are attempting to do is feel in control – of their feelings, and their body.
And it makes a lot of sense. When we couldn’t control our circumstances as a child, we’ll try to find ways to feel in control as adults.
But the challenge is that the core issue – feeling unsafe or unworthy – isn’t really getting healed by our attempts to control food or our body.
So, that’s what this episode is all about - how we get to the real heart of abuse and trauma, and heal it from within – rather than trying to create a false sense of safety in our outer circumstances.
If you or a loved one can relate, then tune into this wonderful episode!
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Learn more about us at The Institute for the Psychology of Eating: https://psychologyofeating.com/
Ready to call a ceasefire in your battle with eating, and find peace and freedom with food? Learn more about our newest program, The Emotional Eating Breakthrough! https://learn.psychologyofeating.com/
Interested in becoming a certified coach in eating psychology? Then tune in to hear Marc talk about our Mind Body Eating Coach Certification Training, and download a copy of our School Catalog: https://psychologyofeating.com/info-kit/ Learn our powerful, cutting-edge approach, and discover how you can create a unique career helping others find peace and freedom with food.
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